Marcus Mariota shines on Letterman

LaVar Arrington, Other Penn State Alumni Upset With Penn State Coaching Search

Former Penn State All-American linebacker LaVar Arrington said that he would distance himself from his alma mater if the school hired someone not associated with the program to succeed Joe Paterno as head coach, according to Blue and White Illustrated. On Thursday night, it was reported that Penn State would hire New England Patriots offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien as its next head coach.

Arrington isn’t alone, as former All-American linebacker Brandon Short agreed:

"I don't want to be affiliated with the university if they don't choose a Penn State guy because of our standards, our graduation, all the things that have been important... it's no longer Penn State, so we might as well be in the SEC. They are intent on turning it into a booster culture. Ira Lubert went out and purchased a national title with wrestling and he's under the illusion that he can do that in football. Well, ask (Redskins owner) Dan Snyder about that.

"Penn State is a family and it is real and if they choose to get rid of Bradley and not hire a Penn State coach, then they've turned their backs on our entire family."

According to Blue and White Illustrated, there is a meeting planned for Friday afternoon with Short and acting athletic director Dave Joyner.

1986 All-American D.J. Dozier agreed with Short and Arrington, adding: "If the board or the committee believes that they need to go outside of the current staff, which, I don't see why, then go get a Penn State guy."